Another parcel containing a flick knife from Illinois, USA, bound for the same address was also intercepted at the depot.

Dennis was arrested and investigators searched his home where they found seven stun guns, a knuckle duster and pepper spray.

He said he didn’t realise it was illegal to possess the weapons.

He was given 100 hours of community work, put on a curfew from 8pm to 6am for 30 days and ordered to pay the UK Border Agency’s £1,379 costs.

Malcolm Bragg, UK Border Agency’s Criminal and Financial Assistant Director said: “Attempting to possess and smuggle in prohibited weapons is a serious offence and ignorance of the law is no excuse.

“The UK Border Agency is at the forefront of the fight to stop illegal weapons, drugs, other contraband and illegal immigrants entering the UK. Our officers work around the clock to keep them out of the country.”